Definition of Elbow, tip of the

Elbow, tip of the: The bony tip of the elbow is called the olecranon. It is formed by the near end of the ulna, one of the two long bones in the forearm (the other is the radius).

The triceps muscle tendon of the back of the arm attaches to the tip of the elbow (the olecranon).

Diseases can affect the olecranon. For example, inflammation of the tiny fluid-filled sac (bursa) at the tip of the elbow van occur; it is referred to as olecranon bursitis. And also, for example, a firm nodule can form at the tip of the elbow; it is referred to as an olecranon nodule (and can be found in gout or rheumatoid arthritis).